Dozens stranded when SeaWorld ride malfunctions

Jun. 30, 2014
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A whale at SeaWorld San Diego. / AP file

by John Bacon, USA TODAY

by John Bacon, USA TODAY

Authorities in San Diego were trying to determine Monday why dozens of people were trapped 220 feet in the air for four hours Sunday when a ride malfunctioned at SeaWorld San Diego.

Two park visitors were treated for anxiety after the Skytower ride stalled Sunday with 48 people aboard. Fire Department spokesman Lee Swanson told sandiego6.com that a 17-year-old boy was taken to a hospital to be evaluated.

The ride features a revolving capsule that rises to the top of a 320-foot tower to give visitors a panoramic view.

"They had air conditioning, so it wasn't like they were sweltering in a box," Swanson told the website.

Swanson said a power failure initially drew blame, but that mechanical failure appeared to be the culprit.

"The guests were never in danger and park officials were in constant communication with them while the power failure was being addressed," SeaWorld spokesman David Koontz said in a statement. "Two SeaWorld employees were also in the Skytower providing guests with water and snacks."

The guests also received return admission and other park amenities, he said.

Swanson said firefighters were prepared to rescue people with ropes, something the department trains for at SeaWorld once or twice each year. But SeaWorld employees were able to fix the ride and brought it down without requiring an emergency evacuation.